NAIROBI – A Kenyan bishop has converted to Islam and turned his church into a mosque, saying that he could not stand how women wore indecently to his church.

“My church was known as Nyalgosi God’s Call Church of East Africa, but it is now Nyalgosi Jamia Mosque,” Bishop Charles Okwany, now Ismael Okwany, told The Nairobian.

“During my tenure as a Bishop, I travelled to Malindi, Mombasa, Nairobi and Tanzania to preach the word of God

“I used to take advantage of the opportunity to study the conduct of both Christians and Muslims living in the areas, and it made me conclude that Islam is better,” he added.

“The Biblical teachings discourage modes of dressing which are likely to motivate sexual desire in church. But it is unfortunate that some women wear miniskirts and other clothes that expose their private parts,” said Okwany.

He added that women who dress indecently tempt the clergy.

“It was unfortunate that some people felt I was wrong when I discouraged indecent dressing yet they were the ones who were going against the will of God,” said Okwany.

Okwany began his journey to Islam by visiting a Muslim leader in Kisii County to whom he explained his intentions. He was then referred to Rangwe Imam, Mustafa Saoke.

On September 26, Okwany converted to Islam and was joined by 23 other members of his church.

Currently, the mosque has a population of 63 people after 30 Muslims who were in the entire Kagan ward decided to register their membership.

Becoming Muslim, Okwany wants to study to know more about his faith.

“I will go for a theological training on Islamic religion to enable me to preach the word of God in Islam,” he added.

“I had never joined a theology class but this will be my starting point.”